Huntington's Disease
Huntington's Disease (HD) is a hereditary, degenerative brain disorder, which slowly diminishes the affected person's ability to walk, think, talk, and reason.[1] There is no effective treatment or cure for HD. Typically striking between the ages 30 and 50, early symptoms of HD may affect cognitive ability or mobility and include depression, mood swings, forgetfulness, clumsiness, involuntary twitching and lack of coordination.[1] As the disease progresses, concentration and short-term memory diminish and involuntary movements of the head, trunk and limbs increase. Walking, speaking and swallowing abilities deteriorate. Death follows from complications such as choking, infection or heart failure.[1]
For More Information
For in-depth information on Huntington's disease and care, read Huntington's Disease: An Overview in our Elder Health Guides section.
References
1. Huntington's Disease Society of America. (n.d.) What is Huntington's Disease (HD)? Retrieved July 21, 2009, from http://www.hdsa.org/about/our-mission/what-is-hd.html.
